The Federal Government through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has raised the dues and rates paid by operators in the mining sector.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, DELE ALAKE, announced the price increase at a press conference in Abuja.

He said the government increased a total of 286 rate regimes ranging from 50 per cent to 100 per cent adding that compliance begins immediately.

He also warned that defaulters will have their licenses revoked.

The minister said the review was necessary due to the scarcity of funds returned to the account of the government by operators.

He said the new increase will also assist the ministry enhance the ease of doing business in the sector.